Wadi Al Helo, Mleiha top priorities for world heritage

Sharjah Archaeology Authority (SAA) is working relentlessly and sparing no effort after the global achievement of Al Faya being included on the Unesco’s World Heritage List, said Eisa Yousef, director general of SAA.

He revealed future plans to highlight the exceptional value of other sites, most notably Wadi Al Helo in the Eastern Region and Mleiha archaeological site in the Central Region, both of which are on Unesco’s tentative list.

Yousef explained the success of Al Faya’s nomination file with support from 13 of the 21 countries on the World Heritage Committee, which represents international recognition of the authenticity and importance of the site.

He pointed out that this achievement brings strategic gains for the UAE and Sharjah since it highlights the region as a pivotal part of human history, encourages the attraction of specialised and sustainable cultural tourism and provides diverse job opportunities such as specialised tour guides.

These goals are achieved through close institutional co-operation as embodied in the key role played by Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) through the Mleiha Archaeological Centre, by the Environment and Protected Areas Authority through the Jebel Buhais Geology Park and by Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority in promoting tourism destinations, he said.

Recently, Simona-Mirela Miculescu, President of the General Conference of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco), commended the pioneering role played by the United Arab Emirates in protecting and preserving cultural and natural heritage both nationally and globally.

She affirmed that the UAE is a key partner of the Paris-based organisation and a model to be emulated in this field.

This praise came during an interview with the Emirates News Agency (WAM) in Paris, where Miculescu expressed her appreciation for the UAE’s recent success in inscribing the Faya Palaeolandscape in Sharjah on the Unesco World Heritage List.

Miculescu described this achievement as a powerful message reflecting the UAE’s deep commitment to preserving shared human memory and recognising the value of heritage sites as bridges for dialogue and understanding between peoples.

She emphasised that the UAE’s role extends beyond its national borders, stating: “The UAE not only protects its own national heritage but also takes the initiative to help safeguard global heritage. This reflects its civilisational vision and ethical responsibility toward all humanity.”

Miculescu noted that the UAE is among Unesco’s principal partners, having provided clear support for major international initiatives, including the rehabilitation of heritage sites damaged by conflict, particularly in the Arab region.

Regarding the exceptional value of the Faya archaeological site, Miculescu explained: “Faya is not merely an archaeological site. It stands as evidence of early stages in human development and illustrates human interaction with the natural environment in an area of exceptional geological and cultural significance.”

She highlighted that what makes the site distinctive is its direct connection to the first human migrations from Africa to Asia — a critical phase in human history that continues to be the subject of intense academic study. The documented discoveries at the site, she added, offer rich material for researchers and anthropologists.

The Unesco official praised the efforts that led to this international recognition, saying: “Its inscription on the World Heritage List is a highly significant step, made possible by meticulous scientific work and long-term efforts by the UAE in collaboration with international experts, all in accordance with Unesco’s rigorous standards. The UAE’s nomination file was comprehensive and compelling, and we highly value this level of professionalism.”

She also applauded the UAE’s approach to integrating heritage preservation with sustainable development plans, emphasising that the country sets an example of how heritage sites can serve as a foundation for both cultural and economic development.

This is achieved through investment in sustainable tourism and by involving local communities in the management and protection of these sites.

She described the UAE’s experience as a model for other countries in the region and around the world.